Also known as “Orris butter or Beurre d’ Iris” is an essential oil commonly referred to as Orris Butter. This oil is derived from a flowering plant belonging to the “Iris germanica” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is extracted from the roots of the plant using the “steam distillation” process. In addition, this oil is pale yellow in colour, and is also known for its floral fragrance. This oil is commonly used as a flavouring agent in the manufacturing of syrups.
A. Chemical constituents of Orris Oil:
This oil is basically derived from the roots of a flowering plant belonging to the “Iris germanica” species in the plant kingdom. In addition, this oil consists of organic compounds such as Irone, Menthyl myristate, Ionone, Isoflavones, Iridin, Irilone irigenin, Triterpenes, ß-amyrin and ß-sitosterol.
B. The uses and benefits of Orris Oil:
There are a number of benefits that one can gain by using this oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Diuretic:
This oil when used enables the flushing out of waste products such as kidney stone from the body by stimulating the process of urination.
2. Antidepressant:
This oil possesses an “antidepressant” property, and hence when used helps in suppressing depression an issue related to mental health.
3. Antibacterial:
This oil when used helps in suppressing the growth of bacteria, preventing bacterial infections, and thereby serving as an antibacterial.
4. Anti-inflammatory:
This oil also consists of an “anti-inflammatory” property, and hence when used helps in suppressing conditions such as inflammation and swelling.
5. Antiseptic:
By destroying disease causing microorganism, and helping in the treatment of external and internal wounds when used this oil serves as an antiseptic.
C. The adverse effects of Orris Oil:
There are a couple of adverse effects that could occur on using this oil. They are as follows:
- The use of this oil can be extremely harmful to pregnancy, and hence pregnant women must avoid using it.
- This oil usage could lead to allergic reactions especially in individuals having sensitive stomach.
- This oil when used can lead to skin irritation especially in individuals with sensitive skin, and hence it must be used with care.
